Pet owner to blame

I take exception to the vilification of the Coeur d’Alene police officer shooting the lab while doing his job. Any dog breed can become vicious through neglect and maltreatment. Yes, some breeds are more apt to be so, but any dog can be dangerous. Labs are no exception.

Arfee’s owner, Craig Jones, was enjoying lunch at Java while his dog was left in a parking lot, out of his sight, in a car during midday. How does this demonstrate love for your pet?

The officer was investigating a situation to ensure the protection of children. He has expressed remorse at killing this dog. Arfee’s owner has taken no responsibility for his neglect and mistreatment of his dog.

Surprisingly, the city has not pursued charges of animal cruelty against this dog owner. I say the police officer is the only one with integrity in this situation and that Arfee was a victim of his owner’s neglect.

Doug Porter

Coeur d’Alene